Tag: black

The Legacy of a Plumbing Pioneer

When people think of a plumber, they generally don't think of a woman. Plumbing has been a male-dominated industry throughout its history, but several women have made names for themselves among their peers. Adrienne Bennett is one of those women who put in the hard work to go from the bottom to the top of her industry. Her story should encourage everyone, regardless of color or gender, to work hard for what they want.

How She Started Her Journey in the Plumbing Industry

From the age of 9, Adrienne Bennett lived in Detroit, MI, which she considers her hometown. She was an excellent student, excelling in math and science, and came from a large family. She wanted to pursue metallurgy and engineering in college, but a racist incident caused her to be disillusioned with the university setting. 

Bennett was looking for her next career move when she was asked if she would like to make $50,000 a year at a political rally. She listened and signed up for the training to become an apprentice in plumbing.

Hard Days and New Challenges: Going From Apprentice to Master Plumber

The beginning of her career was filled with surprising and heartbreaking stories of what she had to overcome. She was often bullied and emotionally and physically harassed at her workplace, where she was often the only woman on a site with over a hundred men. They often tried to get her to quit. 

On her first day as a journeyman plumber, Bennett was left alone on a job site in the cold for hours. They were surprised to find her still there when they returned. Some of the jobs she has held during her long plumbing career are a journeyman plumber, a master plumber, a project manager, a plumbing inspector, and a code enforcement officer for the city of Detroit. Once she passed her master plumber exam, she became the first black female master plumber in the United States. 

The Last Rung: Becoming CEO of Her Own Company

After all the plumbing jobs she has held, Bennett became an independent contractor and opened her own business, which she is the president and CEO of. One of her company’s specialties is green building solutions, and they are involved in an effort to rebuild Detroit and have landed big contracts. 

Due to her perseverance, she has forged a successful career in a male-dominated industry and is an inspiration to others. She continues to help upcoming generations of tradespeople by sitting on the Architectural Engineering Advisory Board for Lawrence Technological University. 

About PAC Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning

PAC Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning is a disabled veteran-owned business serving Staten Island, NY, and the surrounding communities. They offer fast turnarounds, maintenance plans, and options to fit a budget. Call them today for plumbing services on Staten Island, NY.

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